Faucet Dripping After Water Turned Off [Fixed]

Despite being shut off, the faucet is still flowing. When you continuously hear water dripping, it becomes annoying. At first, you may choose to ignore it, but eventually, if you don’t fix it, your water bill will increase.

There are a variety of causes for a faucet dripping after water is turned off such as damaged parts, and loose handles, all of which are covered in this article along with possible fixes. Even a tiny drop can waste a significant quantity of water over the course of a day. A dripping faucet must be fixed immediately. If a leaky faucet is ignored, the sink may become discolored and corroded.

Why Is The Faucet Dripping After Water Turned Off?

Water is turned off but taps still dripping can be caused by a variety of factors. It may happen due to minor issues like a worn-out washer to major issues like high water pressure. Let’s take a closer look at all causes.

Worn Out Washers

A washer is an essential part of the faucet to control the flow of water. When the faucet is in the off position, the washer creates a tight seal against the valve seat and stops water from flowing.

The washer is made of plastic. A faucet is used many times a day. Every time you use the faucet, the washer also moves from its position, and the water flow starts or stops. However, constant use of faucets affects the washer, and its starts to wear and tear over time and the result is a damaged washer.

Water minerals also accumulate on the washer and make the washer stiff and inflexible. Also, mineral buildup on the washer disturbs the working of the washer and makes it difficult for the washer to create a tight seal.  When the washer is damaged, it won’t create a tight seal and the result is constant dripping of water even after its handle is off.

Loose or Damaged O-ring

The O-ring is a small part of the faucet that has a circular shape. Mostly it is made of rubber or silicone. It is placed inside the handle to create a watertight seal between the faucet’s body and handle.

The handle is used to turn the water on or off. The O-ring inside the handle withstands constant turning and twisting. But as usual like any other part, the O-ring also wears out after a few months or years. How much time it will work depends on its material quality.

There is a space between the faucet body and handle due to a loose or broken O-ring. These holes allow water to flow from the faucet. Water doesn’t completely cease flowing when the handle is turned to the off position. In some circumstances, turning the handle two or three times will stop the water from leaking. That is a symptom that the O-ring is loose.

Damaged or Corroded Valve Seat

The valve seat, which contributes to regulating water flow and controlling water pressure, is an integral part of a faucet. It connects the spout to the rest of the faucet mechanism from inside the faucet body.

Although brass, which is generally used for valve seats, is strong and resistant to corrosion, it can nevertheless sustain damage over time from normal use.

When the valve seat is damaged, it won’t be able to stop the flow of water and cause water to leak out from the faucet in the off position. The valve seat is damaged by rust or corrosion. Even little nicks or scratches on the valve seat might prevent it from creating a tight seal, resulting in a leaky faucet.

High Water Pressure

High water pressure also causes dripping water issues from the faucet. Normal water pressure is required for the proper functioning of appliances and fixtures. But when it raises to above normal level, it starts creating problems and a dripping faucet is one of them.

Due to high water pressure, unnecessary pressure is created on the faucet parts. Water flows through every part of the faucet and high pressure affects all those parts.

Constant high pressure on the faucet parts makes them damaged. Plastic parts easily get damaged such as the washer. A compressed or deteriorated part won’t be effective to create a watertight seal in the off condition. High water pressure, in addition to generating leaks, can place an undue strain on your plumbing system, leading to other issues such as broken pipes or damaged appliances.

Damaged Cartridge

Like the washer and the valve seat, the cartridge also controls the flow of water. A damaged cartridge can cause the faucet to drip even when it’s in the off position. When the handle is moved, the cartridge is moved up and down to control the flow of water.

When the faucet handle is turned off, the cartridge should move down to entirely stop the water flow. But, if the cartridge is broken, it may be unable to form a suitable seal, allowing water to flow through the faucet even when the handle is turned off.

Related – What To Do When Faucet Turns on By Itself?

How Do I Stop My Faucet From Dripping After Water Is Turned Off?

When you get to know about the dripping water issue of the faucet, you should immediately start its repair work. It will save the faucet from further damage and also water. First, you need to grab these tools to make the repair process smooth.

• Adjustable wrench or pliers
• Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
• Replacement parts (washers, O-rings, valve seat, etc.)
• Penetrating oil or lubricant
• Towel or cloth

Turn off Water Supply

Turning off the water supply to the faucet is the next step in fixing a dripping faucet. You can achieve this by either turning off the main water supply valve for your home or by closing the valve that regulates the water flow to the specific faucet from under the sink. This will make it easier for you to do repair work on the faucet and assist stop any additional water leaks.

Disassemble The Faucet

To stop the dripping water, disassemble the faucet parts. Start by removing the tap handle. According to the type of screw on the handle, you need an Allen wrench or a screwdriver. Gently, remove the screw of the handle without scratching its finish. After removing the handle, you can see parts of the handle.

Identify Faulty Parts

When you get which part of the faucet is faulty or damaged, by replacing it, you can stop dripping water. Check the washer, O-ring, or cartridge in the faucet. Loose or damaged parts cause dripping. When these parts are damaged or not tightened properly water seep through the gaps and the result is water dripping from the faucet.

Remove the part from its place by removing its nut and inspect whether it requires cleaning or replacement.

On the valve seat or stem, look for cracks, dents, or corrosion. Look for any signs of wear or damage on the O-rings, and inspect the washer for wear or damage. Make a note of any loose or broken components.

Sometimes buildup occurs on the part and creates a gap for water. In this situation, clean the part with vinegar. Take vinegar and water in equal quantities and soak part into the mixture. Let it soak for a few hours until the buildup is cleaned from the part and then reattach it.

If a part is not in good condition, cleaning won’t work. Get a new part and replace it with the old one.

Reassemble The Faucet

After cleaning or replacing the part, reassemble the faucet. Tighten every part properly to prevent leaks. Also, apply plumber grease on the new part to keep it safe from the damage of friction. Make sure that everything is snug and tight, but be careful not to overtighten anything. Reattach the handle and tighten its screw.

Check also – Should You Let Your Faucet Drip In Freezing Weather?

Can I Fix a Dripping Tap Myself?

Yes, you can fix a dripping tap by yourself. It is an easy DIY task. With the right tools and the above-mentioned steps, you can stop the water from dripping from the faucet. Its fixing steps are simple even a beginner can also start fixing by reading them. Doing it yourself is a good way to save money on plumbing bills.

Is Dripping Faucet Normal?

Dripping faucets are not natural and should be fixed as soon as possible. A leaky faucet can waste a large amount of water over time, raising your water bill while also harming the environment. A single faucet that drips once every second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water each year, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

A leaky faucet not only wastes water but over time can harm your plumbing fittings and fixtures. Continuous dripping can erode the faucet’s interior components, causing more major leaks and potential water damage to your home.

Wearing out washers, harmed valve seats, loosened or harmed O-rings and high water pressure are a few causes of faucet drips. Fortunately, a lot of these problems can be resolved with some simple plumbing skills and equipment. To avoid any more harm, it is advised to seek the assistance of a professional plumber if you are uncomfortable repairing a dripping faucet yourself.

James Lewis

James Lewis is a seasoned plumber and faucet enthusiast who shares his expertise on Faucetsavvy.com. With over 15 years of experience in the plumbing industry, he’s passionate about helping homeowners find the perfect faucet for their needs. He’s also dedicated to empowering DIY enthusiasts with the plumbing knowledge and skills needed to repair and maintain their faucets.